Rocky Falls, an Ozark wonder, is a perfect example of a classic Ozark Mountain “shut-in” and a great way to spend a summer day with the family. If you’re looking for a unique way to beat the heat during the “dog days of summer,” give this waterfall swimming hole in Missouri a try. Let’s explore one of the best waterfalls in Missouri that you can swim in. 

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Getting there: From Winona, travel 9 miles north on Highway H. Turn right (east) on Highway NN and follow it for 2 miles and turn right (south) onto Shannon County Road 526. Go 0.3 mile and bear left to the road fork to the picnic ground and parking area. A short trail leads to the falls.

If you’re searching for more waterfalls in Missouri that you can swim in, here’s a YouTube video by tallfarmboy showing another incredible waterfall swimming hole in Missouri:

Have you been to this secret spot in the Ozarks? Or do you have another favorite waterfall swimming hole in Missouri? We’d love to know in our comments!

Do you love chasing waterfalls? If you do, you’ll definitely want to visit Missouri’s tallest waterfall. Also, before you hit the trails to chase waterfalls, read our ultimate hiking packing list article for a list of essential items for your trip.

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Waterfall Swimming Hole in Missouri

Are there any other waterfall swimming holes in Missouri?

If you’re looking for the best swimming holes in Missouri, look no further than Rocky Falls and Grand Falls in Joplin. Grand Falls beckons those seeking to cool off in the summertime. The majestic waterfall is the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri. If you plan on wading in the cool water, wear a pair of water shoes. There are a lot of rocks in the pool into which the waterfall tumbles. Getting to Grand Falls is easy, too. Slip into a space in the small parking lot nearby then make the short stroll to the water. If you don’t have a whole lot of time, you can even just sit in your car and admire the popular Missouri waterfall from afar. Fair warning, however: The waterfall, like Rocky Falls, can get extremely busy during the summer months, especially on those simmering days, with others seeking to stay cool.

What are some other Missouri swimming holes that are worth visiting?

Missouri swimming holes offer the perfect way to find reprieve from the scalding temperatures during the summer. For a unique summertime adventure, make your way to The Fugitive Beach in Rolla. Tucked in a former quarry, this popular swimming hole in Missouri promises a ton of fun for the whole family. Slip down waterslides. Wade in the water, and sunbathe on the sandy beach. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park offers another unique way to stay cool. The shut-ins create natural pools and natural waterslides. However, the shut-ins can get quite busy on hot summer days, so be prepared for the crowds and wear water shoes because you’ll have to maneuver over rocks. The Castor River Shut-Ins boast the only pink granite boulders in the state, and its natural pools provide an idyllic way to spend a summer day. Here are some more swimming holes in Missouri that we recommend:

  • Finger Lakes State Park, Columbia
  • Big Creek in Sam A. Baker State Park, Patterson
  • Big River in St. Francois State Park, Bonne Terre
  • Lake Lincoln, Troy
  • Wakonda Lake, La Grange
  • Stockton State Park, Dadeville
  • Blue Spring, near Pottersville


Be sure to read our previous article telling you more about these
swimming holes in Missouri.

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